Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Impossible Apple Pie is a dessert miracle — you get all the cozy flavors of apple pie without the fuss of making pastry. It’s perfect for busy bakers, apple lovers, or anyone who appreciates a one-bowl recipe that transforms into something special in the oven. The cinnamon-kissed apples keep it fragrant and warm, while the simple ingredients create a soft, comforting texture that pairs beautifully with ice cream or whipped cream.
Ingredients
- 6 apples
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish or similar baking dish.
- Peel, core, and thinly slice apples; arrange them evenly in the prepared dish.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, melted butter, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Add flour, salt, baking powder, and cinnamon, stirring until just combined — do not overmix.
- Pour the batter evenly over the apples, allowing it to settle between slices.
- Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is golden and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 8 slices
- Timing:
- Prep: 15 minutes
- Bake: 45–55 minutes
- Total: 1 hour to 1 hour 10 minutes
Variations
- Nutty addition: Add a half cup of chopped walnuts or pecans over the apples before pouring the batter.
- Spice it up: Use apple pie spice instead of cinnamon for a richer flavor blend.
- Gluten-free: Substitute an all-purpose gluten-free flour blend for the regular flour.
- Caramel twist: Drizzle caramel sauce over the pie just before serving for extra indulgence.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for about 20–30 seconds, or in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10 minutes.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes, a mix of tart and sweet apples (like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp) works best for balanced flavor.
Why is it called “Impossible” Apple Pie?
Because the batter magically creates a crust-like layer during baking without needing pastry dough.
Do I need to peel the apples?
Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but you can leave the skin on for a rustic look and extra fiber.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based milk and vegan butter alternatives.
What if I don’t have cinnamon?
You can use nutmeg, allspice, or a blend for a similar warm spice note.
How do I know when it’s done?
The center should be set and a knife inserted into the middle should come out clean.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, bake the day before and store covered in the fridge; warm before serving if desired.
Can I add raisins or dried fruit?
Absolutely — toss them in with the apples for added sweetness and texture.
Will the pie be runny?
No, the eggs and flour create a custard-like structure that sets during baking.
What’s the best way to serve it?
Warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Conclusion
The Impossible Apple Pie delivers everything you love about apple pie in a fraction of the effort. With tender apples, gentle spice, and a self-forming crust, it’s a fuss-free dessert that feels homemade and comforting. Whether served warm for dessert or enjoyed with coffee for breakfast, it’s a recipe worth keeping in your fall and year-round baking rotation.
Print
Impossible Apple Pie
A no-fuss apple pie that forms its own crust while baking, combining tender cinnamon-spiced apples with a custardy filling and golden cake-like topping.
- Total Time: 1 hour to 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices
Ingredients
6 apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
3/4 cup granulated sugar
4 eggs
1/4 cup butter, melted
1 cup milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch pie dish.
- Arrange sliced apples evenly in the prepared dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, melted butter, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Add flour, salt, baking powder, and cinnamon; stir until just combined.
- Pour batter evenly over apples, letting it settle between slices.
- Bake for 45–55 minutes, until golden and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool slightly before slicing; serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Mix tart and sweet apples for balanced flavor.
Do not overmix the batter to keep the texture tender.
Serve with ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Can be made gluten-free with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg